Low-carb cocktails may seem like a rare find on the keto diet, but with some creativity and knowledge of sugar-free ingredients, it’s actually quite easy to enjoy a delicious drink while staying in ketosis. However, finding low-carb alternatives to traditional cocktail mixers can be more challenging. Hard liquor such as vodka, tequila, gin, whiskey, and rum are naturally carb-free, making them a great base for keto cocktails.
Unfortunately, many cocktail recipes include sweetened syrups, juices, and other ingredients that are high in carbs and sugar, which can quickly kick you out of ketosis. Luckily, though, there are still plenty of low-carb and keto cocktails out there that you can enjoy without sabotaging your diet, and here are 20 of my favorite recipes to try. *Note: As always, moderation is key when it comes to drinking on a weight loss journey.
Even if those drinks are carb-free, they aren’t necessarily calorie-free, so be sure to keep your overall intake in check.
Keto Margarita
Beyond the realm of traditional margaritas lies a low-carb alternative that’s taken the world by storm: the keto margarita. Also affectionately known as the ‘skinny marg,’ this sugar-free drink has been gaining popularity over the past few years and shows no signs of slowing down. What sets it apart from its classic counterpart is not only its absence of sugar but also its ease of preparation, requiring a mere five ingredients that can be combined in just 5 minutes.
Keto Low-Carb Sugar-Free Lemon Drop Vodka Martini
Building on the simplicity of its ingredients, this refreshing cocktail packs a punch that’s sure to surprise even the most seasoned drinkers. With just vodka, ice, sugar-free lemon syrup, lemon juice, and no-calorie sweetener for the rim, it’s a marvel how much flavor is packed into such a straightforward recipe. The drink is undeniably strong, its citrusy zing cutting through any sweetness with ease, and crossing over from tart into truly sour territory.
Still, fans of Lemon Drops or Lemon Heads will find themselves enamored with every last sip of this innovative sugar-free drink.
Keto Ginger Whiskey Soda
Often sought after by those who prefer their drinks robust and unadulterated, the keto ginger whiskey soda is an ideal choice for individuals who desire an uncompromising whiskey experience. With its straightforward composition consisting only of whiskey and a moderate amount of keto ginger ale, this drink allows you to fully appreciate the intense smoky flavor of the whiskey while also enjoying some subtle effervescence and a delicate hint of ginger.
Keto Vodka Lemonade
Ultimately, one of the best things about the keto diet is its flexibility – you can still enjoy your favorite drinks, like lemonade, as long as you’re mindful of the sweetener used. A great example of this is keto vodka lemonade, which not only tastes amazing but also satisfies your cravings for something refreshing and tangy.
The combination of tart lemons, a hint of salt, and a carb-free sweetener creates a truly unique and enjoyable flavor experience that’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Keto Rum Punch
While you may have initially dismissed the idea of a rum punch as too carb-heavy, think again – with a few clever ingredient choices, you can whip up a delicious 2-minute drink that fits neatly within your daily low-carb limit. To achieve this feat, look no further than combining Diet V-8 Splash Tropical Blend, tropical punch Kool-Aid powder, white rum, and ice in a shaker or blender.
These specific ingredients will yield a vibrant red cocktail with an unmistakable fruity flavor profile that’s perfect for sizzling summer nights.
Keto Mojito
Crafting the perfect mojito just got a whole lot easier for keto dieters! The great thing about mojitos is that they’re already relatively keto-friendly due to their low sugar content and minimal carbohydrate count. When it comes to this refreshing recipe, the only thing you’ll need to adjust is your choice of sweetener, as everything else remains the same, right down to the lime wedge and mint leaves that add such a delightful touch.
Keto Whiskey Sours
Notably, those who crave a stronger, more robust drinking experience will appreciate this particular cocktail. It’s essentially a straightforward combination of whiskey and lemon juice, with a touch of sweetness added to balance out the bold flavor of the liquor.
Low-Carb Vodka Chata
Velvety textures and flavors are always a delight, especially during the holiday season. This indulgent drink takes mere minutes to prepare, boasting an impressive nutritional profile with less than one net carb per serving. Its spicy and sweet notes will transport you to a world of deliciousness that’s reminiscent of spiced eggnog, but with a richer, creamier twist.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect Christmas cocktail or simply crave something sweet and rich, this recipe is an excellent choice.
Rum and Coke
Typically, rum and coke is a polarizing drink – you either adore it or can’t stand it. The reason for this strong divide lies in the prominent rum flavor that tends to elicit an extreme reaction from most people. If you’re among those who have a soft spot for this classic combination but find yourself unable to enjoy Coca-Cola, don’t fret!
Zevia Cola offers a suitable substitute, and with the addition of a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprig of lime zest as garnish, you’ll be back in rum and coke heaven.
Bourbon Old-Fashioned
Most enthusiasts of classic cocktails are familiar with the bourbon old-fashioned, and it’s easy to see why – its simplicity is part of its charm. Much like the mojito, this drink requires minimal tweaking to hit perfection. To create a low-carb version, swap out simple syrup for a no-carb sweetener and stick to the tried-and-true combination of bourbon, orange bitters, water, and an orange peel garnish.
Keto Pina Colada
Many of us associate summer with refreshing cocktails, and what’s more iconic than a pina colada? While I don’t have a recipe for a zero-carb version, I do have a great alternative that still satisfies your cravings. This lower-carb pina colada recipe yields only 3.5 net carbs per serving, allowing you to indulge without sacrificing your diet goals. The best part? You’ll still get to enjoy the essential flavors of coconut, pineapple, and rum that make this drink so beloved.
Keto Paloma Cocktail
Smooth out your taste buds with the keto Paloma, an unbeatable combination of sugar-free grapefruit-flavored soda, white tequila, and fresh lime juice that hits all the right notes – tangy, bitter, zesty, and sweetly tart. For an added burst of flavor, consider salting the rim using kosher salt, erythritol, and finely grated grapefruit zest to elevate this refreshing cocktail to new heights, guaranteed to perk you up and leave you feeling revitalized.
Cosmopolitan
Crafted for those who follow a keto lifestyle, it’s no surprise that a low-carb version of the Cosmo has emerged. The keto-friendly recipe combines vodka, unsweetened cranberry juice, water, lime juice, orange extract, and an infinitesimal amount of EZ-Sweetz to create a smooth, dry, and fruity drink that captures the essence of its original counterpart.
Keto White Russian
You’re in for a treat with this keto White Russian recipe, which puts a delicious spin on the classic cocktail. Yes, it’s still coffee, vodka, water, and rich heavy cream, but instead of traditional granular sweeteners, you’ll use a non-granular alternative to satisfy your cravings.
And don’t worry, between the bold flavors of the coffee and the luxurious texture of the heavy cream, you won’t even notice the difference – it’s truly a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth while staying within keto guidelines.
Low-Carb Watermelon Cocktail
Savoring the sweetness of summer just got a whole lot easier with this refreshing pink cocktail. Made with real watermelon, the smooth blend of flavors is elevated by the addition of rum, lime juice, sweetener, club soda, and fresh mint. Whether you’re looking for a revitalizing drink to beat the heat or want to create a stunning mocktail by leaving out the rum, this recipe has got you covered.
It’s the perfect thirst-quenching companion for any summer gathering, guaranteed to delight both kids and adults alike with its fruity flavor and lively fizz.
Keto Bloody Mary
Savoring a Bloody Mary is another low-carb option if you keep your portions under control – this is key to enjoying it without compromising on taste or dietary goals. You can freely combine all the rich, savory umami ingredients like tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and so on, as long as you adhere to the specified measurements for each, ensuring a delicious and guilt-free experience.
Keto Strawberry Lime Rum
Understanding the combination of flavors in this refreshing drink is key to appreciating its unique taste profile. The Bubly Lime Sparkly Water brings a crisp effervescence that pairs perfectly with the tartness of fresh strawberries and the zesty kick from lime juice. Unfortunately, the rum tends to get overpowered by the other ingredients, making it slightly difficult to discern its presence.
Nevertheless, this drink defies traditional expectations of sweet strawberry flavors, instead embracing a bold and sour character that still manages to be utterly delicious.
Low-Carb Raspberry Mimosa
Adding a touch of elegance to any gathering, Raspberry mimosas are undeniably stunning – vibrant red hues complemented by delicate bubbles and fresh raspberries. With proper preparation, they also offer the added benefits of being low-calorie (61) and low-carb (2 net). This effortless cocktail requires only 5 minutes to craft two drinks, using a minimal selection of ingredients: fresh raspberries, dry champagne, raspberry tea, and sugar-free raspberry syrup.
As you might expect, a pronounced raspberry flavor is prominent in this delightful drink.
Low-Carb Red Sangria
People following a keto diet often think sangria is off-limits due to its high sugar content from fruit and wine. However, with some tweaks to the traditional recipe, it’s possible to enjoy this refreshing beverage while staying within your keto guidelines. In place of fresh fruit, you’ll use zero-calorie berry liquid water enhancer, which provides a similar flavor profile without adding carbs.
Of course, you can still add your favorite fruits and berries, but be aware that doing so will increase the drink’s carb count.
20 Best Keto Cocktails
Achieving the perfect balance between taste and dietary needs is now easier than ever with these innovative keto cocktails. Across various flavors from classic margaritas to refreshing rum punches and zesty mojitos, discover how you can indulge in your favorite drinks without compromising on your low-carb lifestyle.
Instructions
Varying from traditional recipes, the first step is to select a favorite keto-friendly dish that aligns with dietary goals. Next, ensure all necessary ingredients are gathered and organized for easy access during preparation. With a little creativity and planning, it’s possible to prepare a delicious keto cocktail in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for those seeking a quick and satisfying drink.
